Photographing in the First African Baptist Church

The First African Baptist Church, on Franklin Square in Savannah Georgia, is a church rich in history and stories about the residents who worshiped in the walls of this church. In the front of the First African Baptist Church is a bell tower going up two or three stories. What you see below is the bell that is in that bell tower. If you want to see the view of the interior of the church just follow this link: First African Baptist Church in Savannah.

When I was photographing inside of the First African Baptist Church I simply followed simple hand-made ladders up a few stories until I arrived at the top floor. You could tell that it has been some time since someone else was at the top of the bell tower. The dust was thick and evey where. To be honest, I don’t even know if I was supposed to be up there, but no harm no foul, right?

I encourage you to visit the First African Baptist Church on Franklin Square during your next visit to Savannah.

The First African Baptist Church in Savannah Georgia

The First African Baptist Church, located on Montgomery Street in Savannah Georgia, was organized all the way back in 1773. This church is very historic and has great character. I spent about an hour in the church last week taking some photographs for a client here in Savannah and of course I couldn’t pass up getting some photographs for myself. The more I learned about the history of the church and the ‘hidden language’ of the church, the more I wanted to know. From the carvings on the original pews from the church’s early days, to the beautiful stained glass, to the holes in the floor (the congolese cosmogram) used as breathing holes for slaves utilizing the underground railroad, there was history everywhere for the attentive visitor.

Many of the features of the Church are original including the lighting fixtures and the Pipe Organ, which is the oldest in Georgia.

The Ceiling

If you notice the ceiling, it is designed as a 9 patch pattern. This was done on purpose to resemble a quilt. During the days of slavery the Underground Railroad was used by thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of slaves as they made their way north to freedom. The Quilt was a sign of safety and designated this place as a safe house along the Underground Railroad.

Visiting the First African Baptist Church

The First African Baptist Church offers tours of their historic building. You can contact them at (912) 233-6597 for more information. They offer these guided tours on every day of the week except Sunday and Monday. Of course things could change so give them a call. I can highly recommend a tour of this great historic place in Savannah.

This is the Sanctuary at the First African Baptist Church in Savannah Georgia. This historic congregation dates back to 1773.

Photographing the Details of Historic Churches

The other day I had the chance to photograph inside of a very historic church here in Savannah. I was honored to be able to get inside with my camera as photography inside of the church is not allowed. The first time I went in with a tripod I was asked to not take any photographs. So when I was given the opportunity to get inside this church with free reign, I jumped on the chance!

So, at this point you are probably asking…What Church is it? Well, I want to know how much you guys know about Savannah. Below is a photograph I snapped while inside of the Church. So, I will give you all a few days to try and figure this out…What Church did I photograph?

Leave a comment below. If anyone gets it correct I will send you something special! Oh, and at the request of the management at the church, none of the photos I took at the church will be for sale. I know you are probably used to being able to buy your favorite prints, these will not be for sale…sorry.

The Sanctuary inside of the Church

If you want to view a photograph of the sanctuary inside of the First African Baptist Church just click the link. Many of the details and fixtures inside of the sanctuary are original to the church. The Church is one of the most historic places in Savannah, and quickly became one of my favorites. I hope to go back some day and photograph it in more detail.